A modest Israeli startup, Kailo Pharma, is aiming to redefine the treatment of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) with a novel approach focused not on managing symptoms, but on directly addressing the brain mechanisms that amplify traumatic memories. The company recently secured NIS 6.5 million (approximately $2.1 million USD) to advance research originating at the University of Haifa, which demonstrated the ability to eliminate the effects of traumatic memories in mice.
PTSD affects an estimated 300 million people worldwide, according to the company, and current treatments often rely on a combination of psychiatric medications and intensive, face-to-face psychotherapy. While these approaches can be helpful, they don’t always fully address the core issue: the persistent, overwhelming power of traumatic memories. Kailo Pharma’s work represents a potentially significant shift, targeting a newly identified biological process at the heart of the disorder.
The company is jointly owned by Carmel, the University of Haifa’s technology transfer company, and NGT Healthcare II, a venture capital fund. The latest funding round was led by NGT, with additional support from the Israel Innovation Authority. This investment signals growing confidence in the potential of this research to translate into a viable therapeutic option.
Unlocking the Brain’s Trauma Response
Researchers Dr. Iris Reuveni and Professor Edi Barkai at the University of Haifa, in collaboration with Professor Chaim Gillon of the Hebrew University, identified a previously unknown mechanism responsible for the pathological amplification of fear memories. Their work suggests that traumatic memories aren’t simply stored more vividly, but are actively *amplified* by a specific process within the brain. This amplification, they believe, is a key driver of the debilitating symptoms associated with PTSD, such as intrusive flashbacks and recurring nightmares.
“Unlike normal memory, traumatic memory acts as an amplifier of neural activity, effectively doubling the strength of the memory signal,” explained Dr. Reuveni. This process alters all synaptic connections of the affected neurons, rather than just some, as occurs in normal memory formation. This comprehensive alteration is believed to underlie the persistence of traumatic memories over time. Crucially, the team found this amplification mechanism appears to operate specifically in neurons associated with traumatic memories, leaving normal memories largely unaffected.
A Peptide-Based Approach
The team is now developing a peptide – a short chain of amino acids, the building blocks of proteins – designed to neutralize this amplification mechanism. The proposed treatment would be administered as a nasal spray, allowing the peptide to reach the central nervous system directly. This delivery method bypasses the blood-brain barrier, a protective layer that often hinders the effectiveness of medications targeting the brain. Nasal delivery of peptides is an increasingly explored area in drug development, offering a non-invasive and potentially more efficient route for brain-targeted therapies.
According to Dr. Reuveni, other approaches to treating trauma, including those that attempt to erase memories, carry significant risks. These methods could potentially damage non-traumatic memories or create fragmented recollections, leaving patients with incomplete or distorted experiences. Many of these approaches require intervention shortly after the traumatic event, limiting their effectiveness for individuals who have lived with trauma for years or decades. Targeting the amplification mechanism, however, could offer a therapeutic window that remains open long after the initial trauma.
Looking Ahead: From Mice to Clinical Trials
Kailo Pharma CEO Dr. Osnat On emphasized the potential advantages of their approach. “Developing a specific peptide that can be administered as a spray is a significant advantage over competitors who offer treatment for symptoms only,” she said. The company’s focus on directly addressing the underlying biological mechanism of PTSD sets it apart from many existing therapies, which primarily aim to manage the emotional and behavioral consequences of trauma.
The next steps for Kailo Pharma involve further preclinical trials in mice to refine the dosage and strengthen the statistical validation of their findings. Human clinical trials are anticipated to begin within approximately three years, with potential commercialization following within five to ten years, contingent upon successful results. This timeline is typical for the development of novel pharmaceutical interventions, requiring rigorous testing and regulatory approval.
Tamir Frank, CEO of Carmel, stated the company’s overarching goal: “to translate the breakthrough into a solution that will change the lives of millions of sufferers around the world.” University of Haifa President Professor Gur Alroey added that Kailo Pharma exemplifies the institution’s commitment to translating academic research into practical applications with real-world impact.
Disclaimer: This article provides information for general knowledge and informational purposes only, and does not constitute medical advice. It is essential to consult with a qualified healthcare professional for any health concerns or before making any decisions related to your health or treatment.
The progress of Kailo Pharma’s research will be closely watched by the medical community and those affected by PTSD. The company plans to share updates on its progress as it moves through the clinical trial process. We encourage readers to share their thoughts and experiences with PTSD in the comments below.
